Sherwood Park, Alberta: The Board of Seniors United Now S.U.N. has been investigating the issue of Transportation for the older population for some time. In particular we have been looking at the situation for seniors who have their drivers' privileges removed. Unfortunately the Alberta Government does not keep figures to ascertain who by age has lost their driving privileges. In fact we have come to the conclusion that the process for withdrawing a license is somewhat difficult to understand.

We realize that there is concern about capabilities required for driving. As we get older some skills are lost but this does not mean that all older drivers should become the subject of a driving witch hunt. As stated by Staff Sergeant Bill Newton, head of the Edmonton city police traffic division “only 10% of serious injury accidents a third of the number of people in their 20s are caused by seniors.”

Perhaps the government and media could publish the comparable number of serious accidents caused by other age groups, impaired driving accidents, and police high speed car chases, etc.

Remember our population is aging - baby boomers are coming along. What is in place to replace a driver’s license? How can older persons get about easily and economically in their communities and retain their independence? Currently it would seem that public transportation does not address these issues. In rural areas it would appear that this situation may be extremely difficult.

If the government is to do a study of this driving issue, we hope that seniors are part of the consultation process. In fact the Board of Seniors United Now would be pleased to send a representative to speak on behalf of over five thousand seniors who are members of our organization throughout the province.

S.U.N. would encourage all interested parties to work cooperatively to develop a long term strategy for safe, affordable and otherwise appropriate transportation for all Albertans.

Ron Ellis

SUN President

For further information contact: S.U.N. Office

Tel: 780-449-1816

Fax: 780-449-1475

Email: unitenow@telus.net

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